Real Madrid squad update as Zidane continues preparations for LaLiga opener
Gareth Bale, who played 135 minutes for Wales during the international break, was unable to train with his team mates. Eden Hazard also worked alone.
Real Madrid have started the final countdown to their opening LaLiga 2020/21 fixture against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena next Sunday, 20 September.
As most clubs got their campaigns underway this weekend, Madrid did not compete as they were given an extra week’s break due to their Champions League commitments last season.
As such, Los Blancos trained again on Sunday as coach Zinedine Zidane finalises preparations with his squad ahead of the beginning of their title defence in San Sebastian.
His players have had just two days rest since returning to work after a short vacation following their defeat to Man City in the Champions League quarter final on 7 August. With all the hard work and spirits running high amongst the squad, Madrid will be ready to hit the ground running next Sunday – or at least most of the players will.
Bale and Hazard trained alone
Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale are still working at their own pace. Both players again trained alone in the gym on Sunday without setting foot on the grass with their team mates. So too did Mariano, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vázquez and Luka Jovic, all of whom are recovering from slight issues.
There was positive news surrounding Isco. Up to a few days ago, it looked like the Spaniard would be ruled out for the Sociedad clash due to a sprain, but on Sunday he completed his third session, half of which he spent on the grass and half in the gym, as in the previous two sessions. Sergio Reguilón, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United after spending last season on loan at Sevilla, carried out the same routine.
The rest of the group began the session with some muscle strengthening sets. Later they partook in some control, combination, pressure and recovery exercises before playing football-tennis, as the goalkeepers worked on some specific exercises away from the main group.
The session ended with an intense training match on a reduced-sized pitch. The players will enjoy a rest this Sunday evening before returning to Valdebebas for Monday morning’s session at 11am.